A powerful and fluid athlete Cormier has developed into an above average striker since making the jump to MMA from amateur wrestling. But against high level strikers it is clear that there are still some technical deficiencies that need to be addressed and his footwork can be sloppy and plodding at times.

Wrestling/Grappling 10/10

The term “World Class” tends to get thrown around a little too much in MMA but when it’s in reference to Cormier’s wrestling it is 100% accurate. A two-time Olympian and winner of numerous awards and accolades in international competition Cormier is one of the best wrestlers in MMA today.
Submissions 8/10

Cormier might not be a submission wizard but he dangerous and aggressive on the mat. His wrestling pedigree allows him the ability to control just about anyone on the ground and he is not afraid to exploit an opening when he sees one.

Athleticism/Conditioning 8/10

Even though Cormier has been competing at the highest level in athletics for most of his life he doesn’t have elite athleticism. He is well conditioned – however you see him slow in the championship rounds – and he a fierce competitor and that allows him the ability to level the playing field against more gifted natural athletes.

Fight IQ 9/10

Cormier is a true student of the fight game and that is obvious in his preparation. He knows how to identify an opponent’s tendencies and attack them. He knows how to gameplan and he understands how to make in fight adjustments. Cormier will never lose a fight because we wasn’t mentally prepared.
Overall 43/50

About The Author

RJ Gardner is a rabid sports fan and a long time MMA enthusiast. After watching UFC 1 at ripe old age of 11 RJ was hooked and his passion for the sport has continued to blossom over the years. RJ has been covering MMA since 2007 and has had work featured on Bleacher Report, SI.com, CBSSports.com and UFC.com. RJ is also a Petroleum Transportation Operations Manager during the day.